The Catalina Express

Relax, Sit Back and Enjoy the Ride

Celebrating 36 Years of Service

This year Catalina Express celebrates its 36th year of service to Catalina Island. Starting with only one boat and one phone, Catalina Express has emerged as the leader of marine transportation to Catalina Island. Each year, more than one million passengers set sail on board the Catalina Express fleet.

"It’s amazing to see how much the business has grown and changed over the past 36 years. I believe the success of Catalina Express has been made possible because of our loyal customers and employees”- Greg Bombard, President

Catalina Express began in 1981 when three Catalina Island residents realized the need for fast, reliable transportation to and from the island. Doug Bombard, his son Greg Bombard and long time colleague, Tom Rutter, worked tirelessly to make the vision a reality. Since then more than 25 million passengers have set sail to Catalina Island on board Catalina Express.

In its first year of service Catalina Express operated with one, 60-passenger vessel. The founders worked closely with boat builders to design vessels with innovative features like full ride control systems for stability, modern navigational systems, airline-style cabin seating, panoramic viewing windows, and on-deck seating, which won immediate acceptance from passengers.

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Travel Information

Today and Looking To The Future

Today, the fleet consists of eight high-speed vessels including four catamarans. The largest vessel in operation, the Catalina Jet has the capacity to carry nearly 500 passengers across the channel. Catalina Express offers up to 30 round trips daily and operates from three different ports.

Concern for passenger safety and comfort have always been high priorities for the owners, and they are constantly studying the most progressive technology in watercraft transportation. President Greg Bombard is affiliated with several different associations including the Passenger Vessel Association, and his recent role as President of the Interferry Association. Bombard credits the company’s friendly service as another key factor to its success. “From the reservations agent to the captain and his crew, our goal is to offer passengers more than a boat ride, but a memorable vacation experience,” says Bombard.

Daily Boat Trips To Catalina Island

Discover paradise on Catalina Island with daily ferry trips to and from the island. More than one million travelers choose Catalina Island as their getaway each year and Catalina Express' large fleet of boats make the trip in about an hour, operating every day, year round from three mainland ports - Long Beach, San Pedro and Dana Point.

Escape To Catalina Island

Leave the hustle and bustle of the “mainland” behind. Catalina Island is the perfect place to take a break from the demands of daily life. With so many activities to choose from, your visit to Catalina Island can be adventure-packed or filled with rest and relaxation. With its year round Mediterranean climate, it’s the ideal place to enjoy ocean air and sunshine.